Season 8 of The Big Bang Theory is now available to own on Blu-ray and DVD, perfectly timed for the Season 9 premiere coming this Monday on CBS. The set includes all 24 episodes from the eighth season. Here’s our review.
The Episodes: First off, I must say this is the first time I’ve ever viewed a sitcom on Blu-ray. It’s so weird to have 24 episodes AND extras on just two discs. But it works, and the episodes look and sound fantastic.
I have friends who think The Big Bang Theory represents “bad sitcoms,” and I really have to question why. Yes, I found the characters to be a little stereotypical at first glance, but they’re not nearly as bad as what you’d say on, say, Comic Book Men. But beyond that… like the BEST sitcoms in TV history, the show has memorable characters with memorable quirks, an outstanding cast of recurring guest stars and running gags, and it obviously must appeal to somebody since it’s the highest-rated sitcom on TV that does well in repeats also. In other words: Haters, go away. I like this, and I always enjoy watching this show. I admit, I often prefer this setup where I can watch multiple episodes all at once.
The memorable characters of Big Bang are also special because they evolve and grow. There’s Sheldon’s continually evolving relationship with Amy Farrah Fowler, played by “TV’s Blossom” Mayim Bialik. Characters have even gotten married, and heck, even Raj has a love interest now! Of course, Season 8 suffered a loss when actress Carol Ann Susi died, taking with her the role of Howard’s offscreen, yelling mother.
Also departing this season? Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting’s hair. Please return for Season 9.
The Extras: One of the featurettes I liked a lot on this set spotlighted four “Big Bang Superfans” and their guests who won a trivia contest to come to Burbank for a taping of the show. Unlike the Supernatural fan segment on that Season 10 DVD, which ran way too long, this is a perfect length, and presented its subjects as enthusiastic and fun. I liked it a lot.
There’s a tribute to Carol Ann Susi, and you’ll probably end up a little teary after watching; it’s very touching and well-done. The Big Bang Theory Comic-Con panel is also featured, as is a look at Billy Bob Thornton’s guest spot. In addition to those things, there’s a gag reel. Good stuff.
Is It Worth It? You won’t get this show looking this good in syndication, and it’s nice to watch without commercials, so there’s that. I enjoyed this set, and the extras were well done.
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